Journalists and news outlets play an integral role in breaking stories about trafficking in persons, influencing action and shaping public sentiment. However, the media in Southeast Asia must navigate a difficult landscape while reporting on trafficking in persons. In addition to precarious legal landscapes, the media is under financial strain. Journalists also face challenges in communicating the complexity of trafficking in persons in a way that is digestible for audiences, especially in local languages.
Given these challenges and the changing media landscape, this study by ASEAN-ACT in partnership with Love Frankie, looks at the role and influence of the media in counter-trafficking responses. The study identifies opportunities for the media to support the efforts of government and non-government stakeholders in developing inclusive and evidence-based policies and programs to counter trafficking.
